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Mara Nomads takes the coast further south this year. Swahili Shores III trades the northern Tanzania coast for the wild, undeveloped south Tanzania — and the Indian Ocean at its quietest. This is 12 days built around one simple idea: get to the beach, then stop moving. Seven nights at one base camp. No repacking. No rushing. Just ocean, sand, and time.
This isn't a sightseeing tour. It's a coastal exhale.
β The Longest Beach Stay We've Ever Done: 7 straight nights at one coastal base camp. Unpack once. Then do nothing but swim, snorkel, and watch the tide.
β Southern Tanzania — The Coast Few Ever Reach: Skip the well-worn northern routes. This year we go south, to a UNESCO World Heritage coastline most travelers never see.
β A Different Border, A Different Kenya: We cross via Namanga this year, through Arusha — a completely different route from previous Swahili Shores expeditions.
β UNESCO Ruins by Boat: Explore centuries-old Swahili trading ruins accessible only by dhow — ancient stone towns reclaimed by the tide twice a day.
β A Real Game Park, Not Just a Beach: Day-trip into the Southern Tanzania Game Park from camp — big game and ocean, in the same expedition.
β Self-Drive Freedom: Bring your 4x4. Convoy with fellow Nomads. Set your own pace once we're at base camp.
β Family-First, By Design: With 7 nights in one place, kids get what they rarely get on expedition — routine, freedom, and a beach that becomes theirs.
ARUSHA (1 Night) — The Gateway
BAGAMOYO (1 Night) — The Historic Stopover
SOUTHERN TANZANIA (7 Nights) — Indian Ocean Base Camp
| Total Distance | ~2,300 km round-trip from Nairobi (TBC) |
| Border Crossing | Namanga (Kenya–Tanzania) |
| Driving | Front-loaded and back-loaded — the middle of the trip is pure beach, zero driving |
| Base Camp Stay | 7 of 12 nights at one location — the longest static stay of any Mara Nomads expedition |
| Swahili Shores II (2025) | Swahili Shores III (2026) |
|---|---|
| Northern Tanzania coast | Southern Tanzania coast |
| Lunga Lunga border | Namanga border, via Arusha |
| 5 nights at one coastal base | 7 nights at one coastal base |
| Marine reserve snorkeling + mangroves | UNESCO ruins by boat + Southern Game Park |
| Zanzibar side trip | Southern Tanzania game park day trip |
| 12 days, 2 stops in TZ | 12 days, single deep base camp in TZ |
Swahili Shores II taught us the ocean is therapy. Swahili Shores III gives you more of it — one base, one beach, seven nights to actually feel it.
β Families: This is a kids-first expedition. Long base-camp stays mean routine, freedom, and safety — kids get their own beach kingdom. β Couples: Sunset dhow cruises, quiet coves, seven nights of nothing to rush toward. β Returning Nomads: Loved Northern Tanzania in 2025? This goes further, longer, and deeper south. β First-Time Overlanders: Convoy support, pre-vetted stops, and a route built for comfort over intensity. β 4x4 Enthusiasts: Self-drive freedom with full convoy backup.
NOT for: Those chasing high-intensity off-road terrain — this is a relaxation expedition, not a technical one.
DATES: Tuesday, 22nd December 2026 → Saturday, 2rd January 2027
COST:
VEHICLE REQUIREMENTS:
BORDER REQUIREMENTS (Namanga):
| Day | Route | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nairobi → Namanga → Arusha | Border crossing, arrival camp |
| 2 | Arusha → Bagamoyo | Historic overnight stop |
| 3 | Bagamoyo → Southern Tanzania | Arrive base camp, settle in |
| 4 | Southern Tanzania beach (base) | UNESCO sites boat excursion |
| 5 | Southern Tanzania beach (base) | Free beach day |
| 6 | Southern Tanzania beach (base) | Southern Tanzania Game Park day trip |
| 7 | Southern Tanzania beach (base) | Free beach day — pure relaxation |
| 8 | Southern Tanzania beach (base) | Sunset dhow cruise, lagoon & salt pans |
| 9 | Southern Tanzania beach (base) | Village walk / free day |
| 10 | Southern Tanzania → Bagamoyo | Return transit begins |
| 11 | Bagamoyo → Arusha | Second overnight |
| 12 | Arusha → Namanga → Nairobi | Return home |
β Convoy System: Convoy leader, daily check-ins β Pre-Vetted Stops: Secure camps and lodges at every overnight point β Border Expertise: Full guidance on permits, insurance, and timing for the Namanga crossing β Family Briefing: Dedicated pre-departure notes for parents traveling with kids
STEP 1: Register
STEP 2: Pre-Departure Prep
STEP 3: Hit the Road!
Selected 4x4s only — to keep the convoy manageable and the base camp experience intimate.
First-come, first-served. When slots fill, registration closes.
π§ Email: travel@maranomads.com π± WhatsApp: +254 794 897 226 π Call: +254 703 626 897 π Website: www.maranomads.com π Based: Nairobi, Kenya
Follow the tide. Find your tribe. Join Swahili Shores III.
By joining this expedition, please be aware of the following:
Mara Nomads’ terms, conditions, and cancellation policy apply. For further details, visit our Terms & Conditions.
The expedition ends on Day 12 in Namanga border.
This is a beach camping tripβfacilities are available! All campsites have showers, flush toilets, and secure compounds. You're not wild camping. Essential Gear: β Tent β Sleeping bags or blankets (coastal nights are warmβlightweight bags OK) β Sleeping mats/mattresses (self-inflating mats or camping mattresses) β Camping chairs (for beach lounging!) β Shade structure (awning, gazebo, or large umbrella - beach sun is intense) β Cooler box (for drinks, fresh food - ice available at campsites β Headlamps/flashlights (for nighttime bathroom trips) Cooking Equipment: β Portable gas stove (recommended) or charcoal grill β Utensils β Cutlery β Cleaning stuff β Water containers (drinking + cleaning water) β Trash bags (leave no trace!) Food & Drinks: β Non-perishables: β Fresh food: Buy en route (lots of supermarkets enroute) β Drinking water: 4-5 liters per person per day (buy in bulk at supermarkets) β Drinks: Beers, sodas, juices (some campsites have bars too!) Personal Items: β Sunscreen (SPF 50+ recommended) β Beach towels + quick-dry camping towel β Toiletries β Mosquito repellent (coastal areas have mosquitoes) β Basic medications (painkillers, anti-diarrheal, antihistamines) Fuel: β Fill up in all along the route
The deadline for registration is December 5, 2026. The deadline for payment is December 10, 2026. The *registration fee covers*: β guide fees β security fees β bonfire. The registration fee does not cover: β camping fees for 11 nights β meals β any other thing not mentioned in the βincludesβ above
Nairobi Stores: β Decathlon Kenya - www.decathlon.co.ke (best value, quality gear) β China Square - Budget-friendly basics β Carrefour - Village Market, Junction Mall (camping sections) β Other Supermarkets - Camping gear + bulk food shopping Online Retailers: β Safari Outfitters Kenya - https://safarioutfitterske.com (premium gear) β Mustek Kenya - https://www.mustek.co.ke (4x4 + camping equipment) β Builders Warehouse - https://www.builders.co.ke/Outdoor/Camping Second-Hand Options: β Jiji Kenya - https://jiji.co.ke (inspect before paying!) β Facebook Marketplace - Nairobi camping gear groups What to Prioritize: * Good quality tent (waterproof, easy setup) * Comfortable sleeping setup (mattress/mat) * Shade structure (beach sun is no joke!) * Cooler box (keeps drinks cold, food fresh)
Registration Fee: Adults: Kes 15,000 Children (4-12 years): Kes 7,500 Children (Under 4): Free What's Included: β Complete route planning β All campsite research, vetting & advance bookings β Border crossing logistics support β Excursion coordination (2 Marine Reserves, dhow cruises, cultural tours) β Pre-departure vehicle inspection & briefing β 24/7 convoy support & emergency assistance β Private WhatsApp group coordination β Daily check-ins & route guidance What's NOT Included: β Accommodation (camping fees paid separately to hosts) β Meals (self-catering + restaurant meals) β Excursions & activities (paid separately) β Fuel & vehicle costs β Border fees β Personal expenses (drinks, souvenirs, tips)
Essential Pre-Trip Service (2-3 weeks before): β Full mechanical inspection (brakes, suspension, fluids) β AC service (coastal heat + humidity = essential) β Tire check (minimum 80% tread depth, properly inflated spare) β Cooling system check (overheating risk on hot coastal roads) β Check all hoses, belts, battery, alternator Mandatory Vehicle Equipment: β Spare tire (properly inflated, matching vehicle) β Fire extinguisher (1kg minimum) - required for Tanzania β 2 warning triangles - required for Tanzania β First aid kit β Basic tools (jack, lug wrench, jumper cables) β Recovery gear (tow rope, & 2 D-shackles) β Baofeng BF888S radio (for communication) β Spare car key (keep separate from main key!) Recommended (NOT A MUST): β Roof rack or cargo carrier (for camping gear) β Portable air compressor (for beach driving if needed) β οΈ Vehicle Inspection: Mandatory inspection by Mara Nomads-designated mechanic before departure. ππΌππΌ CARRY A SPARE CAR KEY!
Clothing: β Lightweight, breathable clothes (cotton, linen - it's HOT and humid!) β Swimwear (multiple pairs - you'll be in the ocean daily!) β Beach cover-ups (for walking around campsites) β Light long-sleeve shirts (sun protection for beach walks) β Shorts, sundresses, casual beachwear β 1 light hoodie or sweater (rare cool evenings, AC in vehicle) β Modest clothing for Coastal town visits (respect local Muslim/Swahili culture) Footwear: β Beach sandals/flip-flops (primary footwear!) β Water shoes (for snorkeling, rocky beaches) β 1 pair closed shoes (for border crossing, town visits) β Reef-safe sandals (Teva, Chaco-style for activities) Accessories: β Wide-brimmed sun hat or cap (ESSENTIAL - beach sun is intense) β Sunglasses (polarized recommended for ocean glare) β Waterproof phone case (for beach/boat trips) β Dry bag (for snorkeling trips, dhow cruises)
Registration & Payment: β Registration Opens: August 1, 2026 β Registration Deadline: December 5, 2026 or until slots fill β 50% Deposit Due: December 5, 2026 β Final Payment Deadline: December 10, 2026 Pre-Departure: β Vehicle Inspection: Before December 15, 2026 β Trip Briefing: December 12, 2026 - 2.00 pm
β M-Pesa (Lipa na M-Pesa): Buy Goods Till Number: 864599 Business Name: Mara Nomads Amount: Kes 15,000 (adult) or Kes 5,500 (child above 4) β Bank Transfer: Contact travel@maranomads.com for bank details or WhatsApp: +254 794 897226 β After Payment: * Send M-Pesa confirmation message to WhatsApp: +254 794 897226 * Include: Your name, vehicle registration, number of adults/kids * You'll receive confirmation + join private WhatsApp group β Accommodation & Excursion Payments: Paid separately to Mara Nomads 50% deposit: 25 days before departure Final balance: 20 days before departure Payment instructions sent via WhatsApp group
YES! Swahili Shores is VERY kid-friendly. Why Kids Will Love It: β Beach camping (sandcastles, swimming daily!) β Snorkeling at Marine Reserve (sea turtles, dolphins - ages 5+) β Dhow sailing (traditional boats - adventure!) β Gentle activities (no strenuous hiking) β Shaded campsites (important for young kids) β Showers + flush toilets at all camps (no roughing it!) Parent Tips: β AC is ESSENTIAL - coastal heat/humidity can be tough on kids β Pack plenty of snacks & drinks (kids get hungry/thirsty on beach days!) β Entertainment: Tablets with downloaded movies, beach toys, books cSun protection: Kids' sunscreen (SPF 50+), hats, rash guards for swimming β Life jackets: If kids are weak swimmers (for dhow cruises, snorkeling) Age Recommendations: Ages 0-3: Doable but a tiny bit challenging Ages 4-8: Perfect age (love the beach, simple snorkeling, adventure!) Ages 9+: Ideal (can participate fully in all activities)
Paid Separately from registration fee (via Mara Nomads): Accommodation: Camping: person/night (varies by campsite) Rooms (if preferred): person/night Excursions: Southern Tanzania National Park: β (MUST-DO!) Tanzania Marine Reserve snorkeling: β (MUST-DO!) Tanzania historic town tour: /person Kenya and Tanzania Sunset dhow cruise: /person Tanzania Mangrove kayaking: /person Village cultural walks: /person Activities (Optional): Additional dhow trips, snorkeling: Varies Vehicle Costs (per Vehicle): Tanzania border facilitation fee: KES 1,000 Personal Costs: Meals (self-catering + restaurants) Drinks, snacks, tips Souvenirs etc.
Departure: December 22, 2026 (Tuesday) Return: January 02, 2027 (Saturday) Note: Dates are tentative and may be adjusted based on group preference or operator availability. Final dates confirmed 90 days before departure.
Recommended: 4x4 (for beach access tracks and oastal roads) Acceptable: High-clearance AWD (MUST be pre-approved by Mara Nomads) Why 4x4? * Some beach campsites have sandy access tracks * Tanzania coastal roads can be rough after rain * Peace of mind for convoy driving
Beach Essentials: β Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, fins - or rent them) β Waterproof sunscreen (SPF 50+) β After-sun lotion or aloe vera β Beach games (frisbee, volleyball, cards) β Books, Kindle (lots of beach lounging time!) Health & Safety: β Malaria prophylaxis (consult doctor - coastal areas are malaria zones) β Basic first aid kit (band-aids, painkillers, anti-diarrheal) β Mosquito repellent β Hand sanitiser, wet wipes β Prescription medications (bring extras) Electronics: β Phone + charger β Power station (to keep the fridge running) β Power bank (campsites have charging, but good backup) β Camera β Headlamp or flashlight Documents: β Passport OR Kenya Temporary Permit (TP) - see border section β Vehicle logbook (original or notarized copy) β Driving license (Kenyan + International if you have it) β Photocopies of all documents (keep separate from originals) β Yellow fever certificate Money: β KES cash (for Kenya expenses) β USD cash (easier to exchange at Tanzania border, but KES is still okay) β M-Pesa (works in Kenya, & in Tanzania) β Credit/debit card (backup, not all places accept cards)
Personal Documents (Every Traveler): OPTION 1: Kenyan Passport β (Recommended) Valid passport with 6+ months validity Kenyan citizens get visa-free entry to Tanzania (90 days) OPTION 2: Kenya Temporary Travel Permit (TP) β (For Kenyans without passports) Apply via eCitizen: www.ecitizen.go.ke Cost: Kes 1,050 Requirements: Original Kenyan ID, 2 passport photos Processing: Immediate Valid: 30 days, single entry/exit to Tanzania Children: Valid passport OR original birth certificate + parent's ID 2 passport photos π‘YELLOW FEVER CERTIFICATE Vehicle Documents: β Original vehicle logbook OR notarized copy β Notarized authorization letter (if vehicle not registered in your name) β Kenyan driving license (original) β Kenyan vehicle insurance β COMESA insurance Tanzania Road Safety Requirements (Checked randomly on the road): β 1kg fire extinguisher β 2 warning triangles β Spare tire (properly inflated, matching vehicle) β First aid kit
Expected time: 1-4 hours for full convoy
YES! Rooms are available. β Limited availability - book early if preferred because its a high season Let Mara Nomads know your preference during registration - we'll coordinate room bookings.
BOTH self-catering AND restaurants available! β Campsites with Restaurants: Beach Campsite: Full restaurant/bar, breakfast/lunch/dinner available, excellent seafood β Self-Catering Facilities: All campsites have washing-up sinks, water available β Recommended Approach: Self-cater breakfasts Self-cater some dinners Restaurant meals 3-4 times (Tanzania fresh seafood nights) Packed lunches (for beach days) β Grocery Shopping Stops